As you use your camera lens, it is likely to end up with a few scratches at some point in time. If you have a few minor ones, it won’t always impact the quality of your photos. It would be best if you wait until you have scratches that are indeed causing a problem with your image quality before you try to repair them because you don’t want to risk creating a situation where there isn’t one.
Once you have scratches that need repair, there are a few different methods that you can use.
1. The Rubbing Alcohol Method
When you use this method, you need to be aware of the risks. There is a risk of damaging the lens coating, so you must be careful. You can get some clinical-grade rubbing alcohol from just about any pharmacy, and you will need a microfiber cloth because it is gentle and won’t harm your lens.
Take your microfiber cloth and dampen it with rubbing alcohol. You don’t want to use so much that the fabric is wet; make sure it is damp. Rub it over your scratch on the lens. This method will work for minor scratches, but if you have deep scratches that cut into the glass on the lens, it won’t repair them. Just be careful not to use too much because it damages the lens coating.
2. Try Using Toothpaste
For this method, you will need coarse toothpaste and a microfiber cloth. The toothpaste also carries a risk because it can remove the lens coating. You need to be careful when you use it. Toothpaste is somewhat abrasive if you choose a coarse type, and it is commonly used to remove scratches on the glass, including your watch or phone screen. Place a small amount of toothpaste on the microfiber cloth, and be careful as you work on the scratch on your lens.
3. Vaseline or Another Petroleum-Based Product
For this method, you can get some Vaseline or any petroleum-based product and a microfiber cloth. People often use this method to repair laptop screens that have been scratched. It also does a great job on plastic items. You can take a dab of Vaseline on the microfiber cloth and gently rub the scratch to see if you can remove it.
4. Use Some Glass Polish
You can find windscreen polish for cars at an auto body parts store. It has nano glass coating protection and a low risk of harming your camera lens. Get the microfiber cloth damp with this product, and then you can rub the scratch on the lens.
In addition, repairing the scratch will add a protective coating to your lens. Make sure that you choose a windscreen polish that includes nano-coating protection.
5. Try an Old-Fashioned Eraser
For this method, get a soft, old-fashioned eraser. You can use it to “erase” scratches from your camera lens. It also works for scratches on phones and tablets. This will work for minor scratches.
6. Banana and Baking Soda
For this method, you need a banana and baking soda. It carries a low risk, and it shouldn’t harm your lens. Take your banana and peel it. Then, dip the banana in baking soda to be on end. Take the banana and use it to wipe the scratch on the lens. Once you finish, you will need to clean the lens, but this is an effective method with low risk.
7. Get a Camera Lens Scratch Repair Kit
You can also use a camera lens scratch repair kit. You can purchase them at camera stores designed to remove scratches from your lens. They come with a special cream, and you will put it on the lens. Use a microfiber cloth to rub the cream until you eliminate the scratches. If the scratches are too deep, improving them may take some time.
How to Avoid Scratching Your Camera Lens
Although there are different ways to try to remove scratches from your camera lens, they can damage the lens in the process. You may terminate the lens coating, so you must be careful. Rather than ending up in a position where you need to repair your lens, you should take steps to prevent scratching your lens in the first place.
The Camera Lens on Your Smartphone
If the lens you damaged is on your phone, there are several ways to prevent scratches. First, make sure you have a phone case on it. The case elevates the phone when you put it on a surface, which protects the lens and prevents it from coming into contact with it.
Avoid placing your camera on hard surfaces. When you put it down, ensure that the camera side is facing up. You can also try to remember to put it on a soft towel or cloth when you put it down.
Another place where the camera on your phone gets damaged is in your pocket. Do not place it with your keys, coins, or other hard surfaces in your pocket. This can damage your camera, and it could even crack the screen of your phone.
You can also get a pouch for your phone, separating it from other items in your pocket or bag. Finally, you can buy a camera lens protector for your phone similar to your screen protector.
Protecting the Lens for Your Camera
You can also take steps to protect the lens from your camera. The first thing that you should do is make sure that you use a camera bag. These bags have special compartments that protect your camera and accessories, including your lenses. The compartments are cushioned, and they reduce vibration and protect your lenses.
Another important tip is to avoid putting your gear away when wet. When shooting in the rain, you must ensure your lens is dry before putting it away. If you put it in the bag while it is wet, the water can get inside the lens and damage it further. Dry off any water you can see, then set the lens and camera aside until it dries.
Make sure that you always use your lens caps. They protect your lenses from anything that could scratch them. You should also make a habit of cleaning your camera and other accessories. This will prevent residue buildup that can lead to grit scratching your lens.
Final Words
If you find that you have scratches on your camera lens, there are several things you can do to remove them. It is essential to use caution so that the repair method doesn’t do more harm than good. If you try these methods and still have a scratch, you may need to take the lens to a professional.
It is essential to take care of your camera lens to prevent scratches from occurring. You should ensure a good-quality camera bag and keep the lens caps on your lenses.
